Burnelle "Burnei" Wilkins

She was born on June 18, 1950 in Jacksonville, FL to the late James Burnell Martin and Corinne Elizabeth “Bettie” Ridley Martin.

Burnei grew up in Fort Smith, AR and attended Southside High School. She married her high school sweetheart, Harold Dean Wilkins, Sr. on August 31, 1968. Together, they would take their little family on many adventures and live in many places spreading the word of God. The number of people whose lives she touched and brought to the Lord, is enumerable. Many of those people lovingly called her “Mom”.

Burnei loved her role as a pastor’s wife and took great pride in supporting his ministry. Her faith was the foundation of her life and guided her in every season. She trusted the Lord in times of joy and in times of trial, and she reflected His love through kindness. Her Bible was well worn, her prayers were constant, and her heart was always open to those in need. She was the perfect example of showing what it means to love sacrificially and trust God fully.

She was a member of First Church of Pocola. Burnei was a devoted wife, mom, sister, and friend to many. One of her greatest joys on earth was being a Mimi to her grandkids and great-grandkids. Though we grieve her absence, we rejoice in the promise that we will see her again.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and brother, James Harry “Red” Martin.

She is lovingly remembered by her devoted husband of 57 years, Harold Dean Wilkins, Sr. of the home; two sons, H. Dean Wilkins Jr. and wife Dusty of Barling, AR, and Darell and wife Shelly of Arkoma, OK; bonus daughter, Valarie Moffett and husband Michael of Rudy, AR; four grandkids, Bethany Wilkins and partner Walker of Van Buren, AR, Korrie Ferland and husband Brandon of Fort Drum, NY, Tyler Wilkins of Arkoma, OK, Amber Wilkins and partner Jacob of Fort Smith, AR; two bonus grandkids, Michelle Varrato and husband Marshall of Rudy, AR, Adam Moffett and partner Margaret of Bentonville, AR; nine great-grandkids, Carrolynn, Hayden, Easton, Emmalynn, Raegyn, Ella, Everleigh, Peyton, and Rylee; one brother, William David “Bill” Martin and wife Laurel of Chandler, OK; along with an abundance of friends.

The family will visit with friends Tuesday, March 10, 2026, from 5 – 7 PM at Edwards Funeral Home in Fort Smith.

Graveside Celebration of Life service will be 11:00 AM Wednesday, at Fort Smith National Cemetery, officiated by Kyle Been.

Pallbearers will be Tyler Wilkins, Amber Wilkins, Bethany Wilkins, Jacob Allbright, Michael Moffett, and Mike Nichols.

Online condolences may be sent to, www.edwards funeralhome.com